Architecture, Building and Planning - Theses

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Planning on difference in public space

Kerkin, Kathryn Lynne ( 2002)

Public spaces in Western cities are often regarded as sites of free and open exchange where one can most readily rub shoulders with different social groups. However, public spaces are also being increasingly privatised and different social groups are excluded. This thesis looks at the way urban planning responds to difference in public space through an in-depth analysis of three public spaces in St Kilda, Melbourne. These three case studies represent public spaces that are used by street sex workers, Aboriginal Australians and traders. Through these case studies the thesis asks whether urban planning treats public spaces as sites where the knowledge and meaning of different social groups can be expressed, or whether urban planning limits difference in public space. The thesis sheds light on the role of urban planning as a disciplinary practice that controls and limits difference in contemporary cities.